Sang Hong kept expressing his thanks and handed out the reward money. That got everyone excited, craning their necks and laughing non-stop.
Shi Fengju then ordered Chang Huan to take those idlers to sit aside, offering them tea and sweets, delving into details about how many people had come and what their statuses were. Once Chang Huan had the information, she relayed it to the old maidservant accompanying her, who in turn informed Mrs. Fang. Realizing the situation, Mrs. Fang hurried down to the kitchen to instruct and arrange matters.
Before long, distant sounds of celebratory and uplifting drum music could be heard. The drumbeats grew louder and closer; many children had started clapping, cheering, and running ahead to see what the fuss was about. Soon after, a majestic parade of government officials in dark uniforms with red trim and tall hats appeared in front of everyone.
